Name: Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta, gluten-free if needed); 218 g (about 1 1/2 cups) frozen green peas; 212 g (about 1 1/2 cups) English cucumber, sliced into thin coins; 200 g (about 1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz cold-smoked salmon, chopped; 125 g (about 1/2 cup) Greek yogurt; 112 g (about 1/2 cup) mayo; 2 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil – OR – olive oil + 2 cloves minced garlic; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp lemon juice; Zest of one lemon; 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tsp Kosher salt; Cracked black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 85 reviews

There is something absolutely magical about a bowl of vibrant, flavorful pasta salad that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with this Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe. Combining delicate flakes of smoky salmon with crisp cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, and bright herbs, all tossed in a creamy yet tangy dressing that sings with lemon and Dijon mustard, this dish is perfect for gatherings, quick lunches, or a special weeknight treat. It’s not only a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful celebration of textures and fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a colorful pasta salad, with layers including white penne pasta, bright green peas, thin slices of green cucumber, and small red cherry tomato halves. Thin, curled orange-pink slices of smoked salmon are scattered evenly throughout, along with small sprigs of fresh green dill. The dish is lightly sprinkled with black pepper and finely chopped herbs, creating spots of dark green and black. A wooden spoon is resting in the bowl, slightly lifting some of the salad. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface partially covered by a soft, textured white cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe shines because of its simple, high-quality ingredients that each bring something important to the table. From the tender pasta base to the punchy herbs and creamy dressing, every element plays a critical role in making the salad taste fresh and irresistibly satisfying.

12 oz penne pasta: Choose your favorite shape—penne is perfect here for holding onto the dressing, but feel free to use gluten-free if needed.
8 oz cold-smoked salmon, chopped: This is the star ingredient, adding a rich, smoky flavor that elevates the entire salad.
218 g (about 1 1/2 cups) frozen green peas: Sweet and tender, they add a lovely pop of color and contrast in texture.
212 g (about 1 1/2 cups) English cucumber, sliced into thin coins: Refreshing crunch that lightens the dish and keeps it fresh tasting.
200 g (about 1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of natural sweetness and vibrant color brighten every bite.
125 g (about 1/2 cup) Greek yogurt: Adds creamy tanginess and keeps the dressing light and luscious.
112 g (about 1/2 cup) mayo: Gives richness and smooth texture, balancing the yogurt perfectly.
2 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil (or olive oil + 2 cloves minced garlic): Brings a savory depth and subtle garlic warmth without overpowering.
2 tsp Dijon mustard: Contributes a gentle, peppery bite to the dressing.
1 tsp lemon juice + zest of one lemon: The fresh citrus notes lift the flavors and add brightness.
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped: Mild oniony flavor that adds freshness and color.
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: The herbaceous, slightly sweet dill perfectly complements the smoked salmon.
1 tsp Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without being too salty.
Cracked black pepper, to taste: Adds subtle heat and complexity.

How to Make Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta and Peas

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Add your penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions, usually about 10 minutes. In the final minute, toss in the frozen green peas to defrost along with the pasta. When both are ready, drain everything in a colander and rinse under cold water right away—this stops the cooking, removes excess starch, and cools the pasta to prepare it for the salad.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, mayo, garlic-infused olive oil (or olive oil with minced garlic), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped chives, dill, Kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir with a silicone spatula until the dressing is smooth and well combined. This dressing is the heart of the salad, balancing creaminess, acidity, and herbs for a delicious coating.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Peas, and Dressing

Transfer the cooled pasta and peas to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold everything together—take your time to make sure each piece of pasta is evenly coated. This step ensures every bite will be bursting with flavor and the salad stays fresh and vibrant.

Step 4: Add Smoked Salmon and Fresh Veggies

Next, fold in the chopped smoked salmon, sliced cucumber coins, and halved cherry tomatoes. These ingredients add exciting textures and bright colors to the bowl. Give the salad one last gentle toss, then taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if you like. The salad can be served right away or chilled for later.

How to Serve Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe

A large white bowl filled with creamy pasta salad sits on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main layers: the top layer is white creamy penne pasta, mixed with bright green peas, thin slices of green cucumber, and halved red cherry tomatoes. Scattered among these are soft orange pieces of smoked salmon and small sprigs of fresh dill. A wooden spoon is partially buried in the bowl, with some pasta and veggies clinging to it. Next to the bowl, a white plate holds a smaller serving of the same salad with similar colorful layering of pasta, peas, cucumber, tomatoes, salmon, and dill. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe truly special, add a flourish of extra fresh dill sprigs or chives on top just before serving. A few lemon wedges on the side also work beautifully, inviting guests to add that final zesty touch. These simple garnishes bring a fresh presentation and boost the flavor profile even more.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp garden green salad, crusty artisanal bread, or even some roasted asparagus. It also makes a fantastic partner for a chilled white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon for a refreshing meal that feels effortlessly elegant.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your friends or family with a creative twist? Serve the Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe in hollowed-out cucumbers or small individual glass jars for a charming picnic or party presentation. Layer the salad with a bit of extra fresh herbs on top or gently swirl some extra dressing for visual appeal. These ideas make the dish as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got extra Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe, no worries—store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and flavorful for up to one day, though it’s truly best enjoyed within this timeframe so the smoked salmon stays tender and the veggies crisp.

Freezing

This pasta salad is not the best candidate for freezing because the fresh vegetables and smoked salmon can lose their texture and the dressing may separate. For optimal freshness, stick to making only as much as you’ll eat within a day or so.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled salad, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, if you prefer it slightly less cold, remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes ahead of serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to fully wake up.

FAQs

Can I substitute another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the dressing, you can use fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.

Is there a good alternative to mayonnaise in this recipe?

If you’d like to lighten the dressing further or avoid mayo, you can increase the amount of Greek yogurt or add a little extra olive oil for creaminess. Just keep the balance of flavors in mind to keep that perfect tang and richness.

Can I make this Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe vegan?

Since smoked salmon and mayo are key ingredients, making this entirely vegan requires significant substitutions. You might try smoked carrot “lox” or marinated tofu in place of salmon, and a vegan mayo alternative, but it will change the characteristic flavor quite a bit.

How long does this salad keep its freshness?

For the best taste and texture, enjoy within one day of preparation. After that, the smoked salmon may become dry, and the veggies less crisp, so it’s best fresh or just slightly chilled.

Can I add other vegetables to this pasta salad?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in some finely diced bell peppers, radishes, or even blanched asparagus tips to add more crunch and color. Just be mindful of balancing flavors so the smoked salmon remains the star.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe, it will quickly earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation. It’s a fabulous balance of smoky, fresh, creamy, and tangy that comes together with ease and minimal fuss. Whether you’re looking for a no-fuss lunch, a light dinner, or a bright side to share, this salad delivers on all fronts. Go ahead and treat yourself—you’re going to love every bite!

Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need